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Stumble & Fall (A Legacy of Silence Book 2) by Amy Rivers – Review by Christine Baranek

Stumble & Fall (A Legacy of Silence, #2)Stumble & Fall by Amy Rivers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stumble & Fall
By: Amy Rivers

SUCH A GOOD STORY! Let me just start with that.
This is the second book in the Legacy of Silence. But I have not read the first book (yet, going to order it right now!) and it read perfectly fine. You may be missing just a little bit of background information regarding Tilly and Kate, but nothing that can’t be figured out through context clues.
This story is heavy, dealing with rape and sex trafficking. It may be triggering to some so a warning might be appreciated.
Tilly and Kate are sisters. They have lived very traumatic and tumultuous lives. However they have not taken this as a hardship they cannot overcome. Rather, it is something that they apply to help others. Kate is a psychologist whose whole practice is helping young people in need. She discovers a potential human trafficking ring that involves the people in power in her town. Tilly is a nurse who has helped one too many women after an attack. Together they work to solve this case.
As hard as the topic is. I love the way that this story handled it. Tilly and Kate are great examples of overcoming adversity. I love the bond they have as sisters and how they are willing to help others in need.
I think Tilly and Kate are greatly developed characters who I was rooting for. I definitely cannot wait to read more about the two of them as the series continues!

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The Rom Com Movie Club (The Rom Com Movie Club Book 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by Christine Baranek

The Rom Com Movie Club - Book OneThe Rom Com Movie Club – Book One by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Rom Com Movie Club
By: Bernadette Marie

I have been a fan of Bernadette Marie for a while now. So I was very excited to start another book by her. Once again, I was not disappointed. It is what I have come to know and love from her. A book with wonderful characters and fantastic plot line and me not wanting the story to end. I always feel like I am one of the characters in the story when I read her stories.
I absolutely loved this story. Lisa, Mindy, Ruby and Tina are the types of friends I have wanted for myself but have never found. They are the friends that get together once a month to celebrate friendship and watch a romantic comedy. Their night is full of traditions – starting with wearing a baggy college sweatshirt and pretending it is the sleepovers they loved as teenagers. The biggest tradition of all is the searching for the happily ever after through film.
This time however, things begin to go a little sideways and their friendships are tested. Lisa has not exactly believed in happy endings, but she loves the idea of them. Tina is getting married and stressed out beyond belief. She is venting to Lisa about how she is sharing her future in-laws house and how that house is growing by one more. Her fiancee’s brother is moving home. Lisa asked to see a picture of Ryan and sparks instantly flew.
When they met the chemistry was unimaginable. However, it also tested the waters of the girls’ friendship. The last think Lisa wants to do is ruin Tina’s wedding, but should she have to walk away from her happily ever after? Or will Tina come around and see how much happiness and love Ryan and Lisa have for one another.
I definitely love this story and the characters. I cannot recommend this story enough to those that love a good comfort of a story about friendship and love.

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We Blend (Falling for the Rockstar’s Daughter Book 1) by Willa Drew – Review by Shannon Fowler

WE Blend (Falling for the Rockstar's Daughter Series #1)WE Blend by Willa Drew
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As a parent of young adults, I am not usually a fan of the young adult troupe. But I took a chance on WE Blend and I am so glad I did! What a well written, passionate, sweet story!

Young adults may claim to know it all but they really are just trying out what they do know and discovering what they don’t. The two main characters, Wil and El learn that money is the root of many problems, whether you have it or you don’t.

This story has all the feels. It made me laugh, cry and even sigh. The situations these characters find themselves in, especially the ones they create, are realistic and believable. Many times, I found myself saying “that’d be my luck!”

This story was easy to read with the plot clearly laid out, what wasn’t clear was how these two were going to get their HEA! I enjoyed reading book 1 and am looking forward to the next story in this series.

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Reviewed by @shannonlovesbooks

Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Heather Hoke

Dream-ShifterDream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a cute book! The story of Gwendolyn and her “challenging” events is very entertaining! It will keep you reading just to finish out your giggle.
Definitely a really good adolescent read!

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Finding Bryce (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 1) by Debra Parmley – Review by Michelle Mulvey

Finding Bryce (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 1)Finding Bryce by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I definitely loved this short novella but wish it was a bit longer. I can’t wait to read more in this series soon.
2 strangers meet at a costume party. A gladiator and a fairy. They engage in a beautiful night together that sticks with them
For years to come. Neither can get the other out of their minds. Pippa has a reminder every time she looks at her son. Tanner is a navy seal and is away for most of that time saving the world but still thinks about that night before he left for a mission.
When Tanner’s father is at the park and sees Pippa and her son, he automatically starts asking questions and putting the facts together. By the time Tanner can get to Pippa, her ex has found her and taken her and her son. Luckily, Tanner is a Navy Seal so when him
And his team go hunting, it’s not hard to find when Pippa is being held. This book deserves a lot more pages but, it was still perfect the way it was. Cannot wait for more from this author!

Review by @xchellex

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Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery Book 1) by Casey Cardel – Review by Moriah Venable

Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery)Better Gnomes & Gardens by Casey Cardel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After being fired from his previous journalism job, Bob is looking for a new job. Thankfully he has a few months before rent is due so he frequents the local coffee shop hoping to find gossip to write about.

Seems his luck is turning when an older man approaches him asking him to find out who has taken his missing gnome. He agrees to help. Unfortunately, he soon learns that Misty Haven, the town he has just moved to, is not all that it seems.

I just want to say that I loved the paranormal aspect of this. I love when towns have their own secrets.

Bob is also a witty character. The fact he wrote about BigFoot made me laugh too.

This is short. I wish it was longer but I am excited for the next novel.

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Elemental Fire (The Hidden Realms Book 1) by EG Manetti – Review by Rayne East

Elemental Fire (The Hidden Realms #1)Elemental Fire by E.G. Manetti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Strong start to a new series
What a world! Brilliant characters, strong storyline and action. This had me glued from start to finish. The author brings a solid fantasy romance excellently balancing all the best aspects – alpha male, strong female, realms, paranormals, magic, romance and even sexy times. Eagerly awaiting book 2 – this is highly recommended!

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The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Stephanie Nicole

The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This paranormal romance was fantastic, and I simply can’t wait to see what this author comes with next. I have only read a couple of this authors books, but I’m quickly looking for more. The writers style is smooth, the word development was amazing, and the writers plot flowed effortlessly. Full of second chances, shifters, mystery, murder and so much more you’ll be on the edge of your seat. So if you love paranormal romances make sure to run out and pick this one up today.

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Devlin by Angela K. Parker – Review by Michelle Mulvey

DevlinDevlin by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved reading this book. There was so much chemistry between Devlin and Evelyn. They were coworkers who actually worked very close and shared clients. They were a team. They gave eachother a hard time…it was like a game to both of them until Evelyn and her boyfriend broke up.
Devlin saw this as his chance to finally
go after what he wants. He’s in the process of taking over the company when their boss finally retires until the boss finds out just how close Devlin and Evelyn have gotten.
There was a moment when I was like what???? Never saw that coming. I thought this book was beautifully written, loved the characters, great read from beginning to end.

Review by @xchellex

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The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Lorrene Huisman

The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author has hooked me and intrigued me with every single book that they have created and brought to life! This book certainly intrigued me and kept me interested all the way through! Great read!

I loved the concept behind what Quinnlan had to do. A second chance to live. but 3 days to find someone you want to share life with. Definitely not the funnest task as there is a lot on the line, and even more if you do not succeed at the task at hand. Garret had his own task to do, and the two had a chance encounter, and as I strongly believe in my own life, it was fate. Garret was a great match I felt, when he learned what Quinnlan was tasked with, he didn’t cower in fear. The chemistry with them was undeniable for sure. I enjoyed the suspense, intrigue, romantic moments, and the other facts that surrounded the plot, as the story went deeper than you would think at first glance! Amazing writing and book! Truly loved it!

This author never disappoints me. I always devour anything that they write and create. This book certainly captivated me entirely! Loved it from start to finish! Highly recommend this must read book and author!

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Lorrene Huisman

Glass HousesGlass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author and book certainly had a wow factor going. I was impressed, immersed in the book, and held to the end. The writing was perfectly done as well as done with a intense force!

The book was woven together perfectly. I find there is a thin line behind love and revenge. When is enough, well enough? The book was a quick read for me, but I was deeply intrigued and immersed as I read. The anticipation to the ending was strong, with the two characters. I must say I was knocked out of my seat when the ending occurred. Did not see it coming. I enjoyed the writing and the descriptive use by this author, great read, that is quick to read, and where the author really gets the nail in with the hammer!

Amazing read that will suck you in and hold you there to the last word on the final page! Freaking amazing read. Needless to say, I highly recommend this author and novel! Definitely a must read for sure! Loved it!

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Kelli Harper

Glass HousesGlass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

New to me author, this is a very short story but it really does a good job of getting to the point and telling you a bit about the reasons the Main characters act the way they do. I am truly intrigued at this story and would love to read more about the MCs previous and future lives. This book literally just takes minutes to read and is a violent, steamy, lust and jealously filled short story.

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The Sacrifice (Dragonpets Book 1) by R. L. S. Hoff – Review by Lorrene Huisman

The Sacrifice (Dragonpets #1)The Sacrifice by R.L.S. Hoff
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I certainly was taken away with this new series. It was interesting and full of intrigue, and it had characters that you kept wanting more of! The read was a whirlwind, in a good way!

The book was complex compared to other fantasy novels I have read. The characters really made the story. I found the pace was well done, There is a lot going on, I found it helpful throughout my reading, to step back sometimes and think back on what was going on. Doing so helped everywhere come together well for me! I definitely enjoyed the author’s writing and new series. Will for sure be reading the next ones in the series. As I basically devoured this book, and kept wanting more! Exceptional read! Very much enjoyed it!

If you want a fantasy read that is different in a good way, and one that will suck you in completely, then look no further! Highly recommend this series, author, and of course this book!

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The Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch by Julia Brewer Daily – Review by Lorrene Huisman

The Fifth Daughter of Thorn RanchThe Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch by Julia Brewer Daily
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have loved this author for all they create from a book I have read by them last year. Ever since I was hooked. This book hooked me just as much! The book had creativity, and screamed that wow factor!

The book was amazing as it was mysterious. I loved the feel I got as I read, you knew something was well not known at first glance with the ranch, but you didn’t have the clues just yet to decipher what it could be! I enjoyed Emma’s as a character as well! She was quite relatable. Sometimes what we think we want vs what people think we should want,….is not the case sometimes we value something no one, not even ourselves have thought of! I was very intrigued, and I wanted to learn the mystery, the author certainly kept me in suspense. When things came together I was more intrigued than ever! The author is amazing at capturing the reader as well as keeping you interested no matter what the story plot is. The book was a fantastic read. I do hope maybe for another installment down the line! Couldn’t get enough! Loved this book!

Amazing author that amazes my mind once again! I completely fell in love with this book and the writing. Defiantly a must read in my books! And most certainly a high recommendation from myself to you!

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Lucas the Spy Cat (Jake the Growling Dog) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Crystal Brehant

Lucas the Spy CatLucas the Spy Cat by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story was super cute! I read it to my 5yo son and he loved it. The illustrations are so beautiful. I love the extras at the end of the book! What a great bonus! I love the little twist at the end as well.

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Revenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater – Review by Kelli Harper

Revenge HoneymoonRevenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ruby gets left at the altar and her best friend Emily suggests they take the honeymoon cruise anyway since it is already paid for and it will give them some time away.
This book is fun and funny. There are some points when you really want Emily to just get past her insecurities, but being the “unattractive friend” as well, I totally get her point of view. I do enjoy how she starts taking over her insecurities though. I really liked her dynamic with Max.
Fun book that will keep you turning pages just to see what happens next.

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The Rom Com Movie Club (The Rom Com Movie Club Book 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by Jules Herbert

The Rom Com Movie Club - Book OneThe Rom Com Movie Club – Book One by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just had such a great time reading this wonderful book that I binged it in a day! It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy. Filled with wonderful characters, a fantastic storyline and fun witty moments it is a feel good book you just have to read! I so can’t wait for more. I want a Rom Com Movie Club of my own!!!!
This book brings us the story of Lisa and Ryan whose attraction and more importantly connection is immediate and so strong. With emotional scars to deal with and drama from friends it is a captivating ride to a happy ending.

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Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes

Dream-ShifterDream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom is a chapter storybook for children 7 – 12 years-old. It is a wonderful little fantasy with shifters, magic, adventure, action, drama, self-discovery, and some suspense.
This is something a little different from Ms. Wickstrom, as it is the first children’s chapter book that I have seen of hers. I was immediately drawn to the beautiful cover, and as my eldest grandson is old enough now to appreciate chapter books, I grabbed a copy for us to explore together.
Gwendolyn is a dream-shifter who is able to become any animal she dreams about, changing back into a girl when she wakens. But what happens when she is startled awake one night after dreaming of being an elk, only to find that she hasn’t changed back into a girl and is stuck in elk form…. AND it is hunting season. Oh No! Will she find a way to turn back into a girl? Can she stay safe and out of the crosshairs of the hunters? What happens definitely makes for a fun read.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Lois Wickstrom!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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A Love Restrained by Becky Flade – Review by Lacy Mercado

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35889561-a-love-restrained” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”A Love Restrained (Philly Heat series, #1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1504849107l/35889561._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35889561-a-love-restrained”>A Love Restrained</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4826956.Becky_Flade”>Becky Flade</a><br/>

My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5080207137″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />

Jayson Donovan thinks that he is not good enough for Kylee Parker. They have known each since they were young. Kylee Parker arrested Jayson because he was a drug dealer. You will have to read the rest of the book to see what happens. I can’t wait to read more from this author.<br />

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Yesterday’s Over (Philly Heat Series Book 3) by Becky Flade – Review by Lacy Mercado

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62684696-yesterday-s-over” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Yesterday’s Over (Philly Heat series, #3)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1663864780l/62684696._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62684696-yesterday-s-over”>Yesterday’s Over</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4826956.Becky_Flade”>Becky Flade</a><br/>

My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5080282998″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />

This dark story. Different story line. I can’t wait to read more from this author. Trudy and Ben are working on a case together and are getting too close to each other. You have read the rest of the book to see what happens.<br />

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Angela Hayes

Glass HousesGlass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

5 Stars

 

Glass Houses is a devilishly intriguing short and dark paranormal novella by Sinister Styx. This little tale might be short in pages, but it packs the punch of a much longer novel. It is cleverly woven to capture the reader’s attention right from the get-go with a mysterious vibe that permeates the entire story. The mystery and suspense pull you further and further into the story as you try and figure out what is going on.
This is quite a surprising little package- with all the dark and moody tension- as well as the intriguing aspects of the mystery…. But it is also very much more than it appears at first- and the revelation definitely comes as a surprise. Very cleverly done…
The writing, scene-setting, and storytelling is very rich, imaginative, and vividly descriptive. The author has woven a lot into a small package, but skilfully choreographs everything into quite an enthralling read.
Mix a toxic relationship with suspicion, doubt, mistrust, ego, pride, and tension- then sprinkle in some manipulation, violence, jealousy, suspense, curses, spice, revenge, and a touch of the paranormal…. and we get a riveting little treat from this polished storyteller.
Can’t wait to see what comes next…
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Sinister Styx!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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A Christmas to Remember by 5 Prince Publishing – Review by katie stapleton

A Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince PublishingA Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince Publishing by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love Christmas. I love a HEA. I love dogs and cats. What could be better than an anthology that combines all three? Nothing. The stories are fun and heartwarming, challenging and thought provoking, and they all paint the pictures of the season so well. These stories are quick enough to read again and again. I love that the stories are compiled like this, and each story is better than the one before. It is the perfect way to get in the mood for the holidays.

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Lucas the Spy Cat (Jake the Growling Dog) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Gabrielle

Lucas the Spy CatLucas the Spy Cat by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A fun and interesting story. Two young sisters eager to know what their cat is up to in the night attach a camera to his collar. They imagine many scenarios about the woods and the inhabitants, and the sisters are surprised by what they find. This book is a cute and fast read with nice illustrations. I like that there are some activities included at the end as well as some ideas to help foster conversation and thoughts with the little ones.

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The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie Reviewed by Jasmin Slagle

The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have loved every book that I have read by this author! Every 10 years a dead supernatural being is brought back from the dead and must take a mate. The only problem is they only have 3 days. Quinnlan is faced with the ultimate choice: bite a dying man and mark him as his mate to save his life but if he is rejected he goes back to purgatory. Excellent book!!!

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx Reviewed by Jasmin Slagle

Glass HousesGlass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

OMG! Such a tragic twisted jealous mess. Poor Ivy breaks my heart but it was also a great short story and I loved it.

Order of Vespers (The Vespers Chronicles Book 1) by Matilda Reyes Reviewed by Jasmin Slagle

Order of VespersOrder of Vespers by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jasper is the main suspect in a case about an explosion and the murderer of her own family. Jasper possesses supernatural power that she can’t control. Great story with unexpected aspects. Loved it!

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Spidersight (Tirzah M.M. Hawkins Horror Stories) by Tirzah M.M. Hawkins – Review by Brandy Vaughn

SpidersightSpidersight by Tirzah M.M. Hawkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I can’t believe I read this book due to my own arachnophobia. The point of view from the spider, Fred, is interesting and makes a unique character. Compassionate almost, and yet part monster that one would expect from a vampire longing to feed off of a chosen victim. Missy’s POV, shows the childlike innocence for a five year old and her favorite animal the spider (even though a spider isn’t an animal). If adults could see the size of Fred they would freak out. I know it made my skin crawl! It’s a highly unique imaginary friend to have. She’s a spunky kindergartener with a special friend. The story gets better from there and great plot for a story!

Review by @bilberrysweet
Brandy Vaughn, November 2022

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The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Carla Clemmons

The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author never disappoints! This quick paranormal romance has a little of everything and I love that you get a back story and an epilogue! Quinnlan just wants to get a second chance at life but only three days to find a mate seems impossible to say the least. Garrett just wants to save his mom before its too late. Can a chance meeting save them both? Tensions rise and quick decisions have to be made. This is a great quick read!

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The Dwarves’ Dilemma (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Julie Johnson

Dwarves' Dilemma, TheDwarves’ Dilemma, The by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Queen Mabel is regarded as the fairest in the Kingdom of Aleta. She judges fairness by using a mirror to see if the eyes of those asking for a ruling had the Sparkle of Fairness. Several people come to the Queen to see if she thinks certain situations are fair or not. One day, the Queen defers to Snow White, who is sent out to investigate the dilemma that the dwarves are having with Pippa. Snow White makes a discovery that alarms Queen Mabel. She vows from that day forward to make some corrections!

This is a super cute book that focuses on the science of mirrors, as well as the moral trait of fairness. The illustrations are very well done and young readers will recognize some of the characters from more popular fairy tales. Not to mention, there is a dragon! Another great read by this author!

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Rachel Moss

Glass HousesGlass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was definitely an interesting read. I’m hoping there is more to come, or another, longer, book added, because for only 20 pages I’m VERY intrigued and definitely wanting to read more. How this author managed to pack 20 pages with a whole story is beyond me. This author really did nail it. This book is definitely dark and may contain a few trigger warnings. I can’t wait to (hopefully) read more!

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